Method and apparatus for restricting grass cutting of a lawn mower in reverse

ABSTRACT

A lock out feature for preventing a lawn mower from going into reverse unless the lawn mower blade is first disengaged, while allowing the lawn mower cutting blade to be reengaged upon being placed in reverse, said latch nevertheless allowing the lawn mower to be moved out of reverse without disengaging said lawn mower blade. An override feature is also allowed by use of a separate override control to allow the user to override the reverse lock out latch in order to go from forward or neutral into reverse without disengaging the cutting blade.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a continuation application of pending U.S. applicationSer. No. 09/586,368, filed Jun. 2, 2000, which claims priority to U.S.provisional serial No. 60/137,577, filed Jun. 4, 1999; U.S. provisionalapplication serial No. 60/147,370, filed Aug. 5, 1999; and U.S.provisional application serial No. 60/152,767 filed Sep. 3, 1999. Thepresent application claims the full benefit and priority of all of saidapplications, and incorporates by reference the contents of same.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to vegetation cutting,and more particularly relates to a grass cutting device which includes areverse safety feature

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Lawn mowers and the like have been in use for many years. Suchlawn mowers can include “riding” lawn movers, such as rear engine ridersor lawn or garden ractors.

[0004] Such mowers allow for the cutting of grass or other vegetation inforward, neutral, or reverse.

[0005] There has recently been recognized a need in the art to providean improved lawn mower which prevents or at least limits reverseoperation of the lawn mower while the cutting blade is engaged.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention overcomes deficiencies in the art byproviding a lawn grass or other vegetation cutting apparatus and methodof using same which precludes a lawn mower from going into reverseunless the lawn mower blade is first disengaged, while allowing the lawnmower cutting blade to be reengaged upon being placed in reverse, saidlatch nevertheless allowing the lawn mower to be moved out of reversewithout disengaging said lawn mower blade.

[0007] Generally described, a lawn mower apparatus capable of cuttinggrass or other vegetation, the apparatus comprising a cutting bladecapable of cutting the grass or other vegetation, a cutting bladecontrol selectively movable between a cutting position and an idle,non-cutting, position, for causing the cutting blade to be either in acutting mode or an idle mode, respectively, a shift lever selectivelymoveable between a forward and a reverse position, for causing forwardand rearward movement of the lawn mower, respectively, a reverse lockout latch movable between a blocking position and a cleared position,the reverse lock out latch when in the cleared position configured toallow movement of the shift lever between the forward and reversepositions, the reverse lock out latch when in the blocking positionconfigured to block movement of the shift lever from the forwardposition towards the reverse position, the reverse lock out latch alsoconfigured to be moved into the blocked position when the shift is inthe reverse position, and control linkage intermediate the cutting bladecontrol and the reverse lock out latch, the control linkage configuredto cause the reverse lock out latch to be moved to the blocking positionwhen the blade is in the cutting mode, such that if a user attempts toshift the lawn mower from forward to reverse movement by use of theshift lever while the blade is in the cutting mode, the cutting bladecontrol must first be moved into the idle position to allow the reverselocking latch to move to the cleared position, whereupon the shift levermay then be moved to the reverse position and then the cutting bladecontrol may be moved back into the cutting mode to cut in reverse.

[0008] Therefore it is an object of the present invention to provide animproved lawn mower.

[0009] It is a further object of the present invention to provide animproved lawn mower which at least initially prevents the user fromplacing the mower into reverse when the cutting blade is engaged.

[0010] It is a further object of the present invention to provide animproved lawn mower which prevents the user from placing the mower intoreverse when the cutting blade is engaged unless a separate overridingcontrol is used.

[0011] It is a further object of the present invention to provide animproved lawn mower which allows the user to evaluate the cuttingprocess when placing the mower into reverse.

[0012] Other objects, features, and advantages of the present inventionwill become apparent upon reading the following detailed description ofthe preferred embodiment of the invention when taken in conjunction withthe drawing and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013]FIG. 1A shows a first embodiment shift lever 12 (a.k.a. speedselection lever) in neutral being blocked by a lock out latch 16according to the present invention.

[0014]FIG. 1B shows the shift lever free to move from forward throughneutral into reverse, as the lock out latch 16 is out of its path.

[0015]FIG. 1C shows the shift lever 12 in reverse, although it is freeto move into forward by biasing against and pivoting the latch 16 out ofthe way. It may be understood that the latch will then “snap” back intoplace as shown in FIG. 1.

[0016] FIGS. 2A-2D show a typical sequence of operation of the apparatusaccording to the first embodiment.

[0017]FIG. 2A shows the blade engaged, and reverse selection blocked bythe lock out latch 16.

[0018]FIG. 2B shows the blade engagement (a.k.a. blade control) lever 60moved to its disengaged position, such that the blade is disengaged, andreverse selection is no longer blocked by the lock out latch 16. In

[0019]FIG. 2C, once reverse has been selected, the blade has beenre-engaged. In the

[0020]FIG. 2D shows the one-way feature of the latch 16, which allowsfor movement of the latch without disengagement of the blade.

[0021]FIG. 3 is a pictorial exploded view of a portion of the firstembodiment, which can include an override lever 20 which can be used inconjunction with a reverse lock out latch 16 within the first embodimentof the present invention.

[0022]FIG. 4 is a pictorial exploded view of a second embodiment of thepresent invention 100, which includes the use of an override lever inconjunction with a lock out latch and related assembly.

[0023]FIG. 5 is a view of a latch assembly 100, assembled from elementsshown in FIG. 4, with the latch assembly in exploded view relative toother portions which allow for solenoid operation of the latch assembly100.

[0024]FIGS. 6A and 6B are logical schematic views of a third embodiment200 according to the present invention, illustrating a electric switch210 in an on and off position, respectively, controlling variouselements thereby, including a blade and a lock out latch.

[0025]FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of a portion of a fourthembodiment of the present invention 300, which includes the use of alock out latch 316 in conjunction in an override lever 320.

[0026]FIG. 8 is a pictorial view of a fourth embodiment of the presentinvention, viewed from the front of the unit, with a cover plateremoved.

[0027]FIG. 9 is an isolated partial top elevation view of a portion ofthe embodiment 300 according to the present invention.

[0028]FIG. 10 is an isolated partial top elevational view of a portionof the fourth embodiment of the present invention, which includes anoverride heel pedal 370 pivotably attached relative to a frame 310 andoperated by an override cable 319.

[0029]FIG. 11 is a top elevational view of a frame portion of a fourthembodiment of the present invention, with an override heel pedal 370shown for relative illustrative purposes.

[0030]FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a fifth embodiment of the presentinvention 400, illustrating the interaction between various elementssuch as switches, transmission position switches, and engine, a vacuumactuator, etc.

[0031]FIG. 13 is a schematic view of a sixth embodiment according to thepresent invention 500, including an object proximity sensor.

[0032]FIG. 14 is a schematic view of a seventh embodiment 600 of thepresent invention, including an object proximity sensor.

[0033]FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of an exemplary lawn mowermechanism 1000 which includes a shift lever 1012 (a.k.a. speed selectionlever) which is used to select the speed and direction of the lawn mowermechanism 1000. The mechanism 1000 includes a cutting blade 1001 whichcan be operated by a blade engagement lever 1002. This exemplary lawnmower 1000 can be used within the various embodiments of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0034] Reference is now made to the drawings, in which like numeralsindicate like elements throughout the several views.

[0035] By way of additional reference, discussion will be made of acutting blade being “engaged” or “disengaged”. This means the blade isin its rotating (a.k.a. cutting) mode, or in its stationary (a.k.a. notcutting) mode.

[0036] Generally described, the apparatuses according to the presentinvention are directed towards means and processes which address a needto at least momentarily stop the cutting process of a lawn mower when ina reversing mode.

[0037] First Embodiment—Mechanical Rear Engine Rider

[0038] (FIGS. 1A-1C, 2A-2D, and 3)

[0039] Under this embodiment, an apparatus according to the presentinvention includes a lock out latch mechanism 16 which is configured toblock the movement of a shift lever 12 from being moved from forwardthrough neutral to the reverse position while and associated cuttingblade is in its “engaged” position, unless the operator first disengagesthe cutting blade. Only once and while the blade is disengaged can thelawn mower then be shifted into reverse. While in the reverse position,the cutting blade can again be reengaged to resume grass cutting.

[0040] If the blade is engaged while the mower is in the reverseposition, the lawn mower can be shifted from reverse through neutral toforward without disengaging the cutting blade.

[0041] The above operation is provided by use of a “one-way” latch 16which can be selectively placed into the path of the shift lever 12between the neutral and reverse position. The “one-way” lock out latch16 is placed into position whenever the cutting blade is placed into itsengaged position.

[0042] Reference is now made to FIG. 1A, which shows the one-way reverselock out latch 16 in place, blocking the speed control lever 12 frommoving from the neutral to the reverse position.

[0043] In one embodiment, the reverse lock out latch 16 is moved intoplace when a foot-depressed pedal is placed in the down position, whichin the applicant's configuration retains the cutting blade in itsengaged position until the operator removes his or her foot from thepedal. However, other configurations are contemplated, such as theelectric configurations noted below.

[0044] Two tension springs 17 and 18, such as shown in the figures, areattached to the reverse lock out latch 16. Tension spring 17 tends tomaintain the latch in its “unblocking” position, and the other spring 18(between the latch and the control cable leading to the foot pedal)tends to maintain the latch in its “blocking” position. These springsallow for the “snap-back” feature of the latch as noted below. When theblade is disengaged, the reverse lock out latch 16 moves out of the pathof the lever 12 as shown in FIG. 1B. This allows the lever 12 to bemoved into the reverse position if desired. Thus it may be seen thatthis control technique precludes movement into reverse while cutting.

[0045] Referring now to FIG. 1C, the shift lever is moved into reverse.At this point, should cutting be desired, the cutting control isre-activated (in applicant's device this can be done by depressing theabove-referenced foot pedal and moving the blade engagement lever to theengaged position), thus engaging the cutting blades and moving the latchto its position shown in FIG. 1C.

[0046] At this point, the operator may then desire to place the mowerinto a forward cutting mode. This does not require disengagement of theblade due to the one-way feature of the reverse lock out latch 16. Theoperator simply pushes the lever 12 past the reverse lock out latch 16,which pivots out of the way against the force of tension spring 18. Whenthe lever 12 reaches the neutral position, assuming the cutting blade isstill engaged the latch will “snap back” into its position in FIG. 1A.

[0047] FIGS. 2A-2C also show a typical sequence of operation of theapparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2A shows the bladeengaged, and reverse selection blocked by the reverse lock out latch 16.FIG. 2B shows the blade control 60 moved to its disengaged position,such that the blade is disengaged, and reverse selection is no longerblocked by the reverse lock out latch 16. In FIG. 2C, once reverse hasbeen selected, the blade has been re-engaged. In the FIG. 2D shows theone-way feature of the reverse lock out latch 16, which allows formovement of the latch without disengagement of the blade.

[0048] Reference is now made to FIG. 3, which shows a preferred optional“override” feature which can be used with the configuration of FIGS.1A-1C, which provides a separate control for a user to override thereverse lock out latch 16 such that reverse can be selected even whilethe cutting blade is engaged.

[0049] This separate control is provided by use of an override lever 20,which is pivotably attached relative to lever guide plate 14 (a.k.a.“template” or “detent” 14), and can be selectively moved in and out ofthe pivoting path of the reverse lock out latch 16. When the overridelever 20 is in the path of the lock out latch 16, the lock out latch 16is prevented from pivoting into the path of the shift lever 12. When theoverride lever 20 is out of the path of the lock out latch 16, it has noeffect on the lock out latch 16, and operation is similar to thatdescribed above.

[0050] The override lever 20 includes a main body portion through whichthe shoulder bolt passes. Extending from the main body portion include amanually operated tab portion 21, and a stop latch engaging portion 22which extends generally rearwardly of the body portion at somewhat of anangle.

[0051] A shoulder bolt 25 passes through the three shim washers 27, andgoes through the sheet metal override lever 20. The shoulder of theshoulder bolt 25 bears against the sheet metal lever guide plate 14. Theshoulder bolt is held in place with a nut, rigidly fixing the shoulderrelatively to the lever guide plate 14. This allows the override lever20 to pivot freely relatively to the longitudinal axis of the shoulderbolt and relatively to the lever guide plate 14.

[0052] The shoulder bolt connection noted above provides a relativelyfree pivoting feature, such that gravity will tend to cause the overridelever 20 to pivot such that the stop latch engaging portion 22 is in its“down” position, out of the way of the reverse lock out latch 16.

[0053] The lock out latch cable spring 18 will be understood to have atleast three modes of “stretch”; a least stretched mode, a moderatelystretched mode, and a greatest stretched mode. The least stretched modeis the mode at which the blade is not engaged, as for example the modeof FIG. 2B. The moderately stretched mode is the mode at which the bladeis engaged and the override lever 20 is not activated, as for examplethe mode of FIG. 2A or 2C. The greatest stretched mode is the mode atwhich the blade is engaged and the override lever 20 is also activated.Such a mode could be thought of as being close to that shown in FIG. 2D,although some slight stretching will likely be done as the reverse lockout latch 16 will be held back slightly further away from the path ofthe speed selection lever 12 in order to prevent contact when shiftingfrom neutral to reverse while in override mode.

[0054] Therefore it should be understood that when the override lever 20is activated and is providing its override function during bladeengagement, the lock out latch cable spring 18 is stretched to a greaterextent than when the blade is engaged and the override lever is notactivating and thus is not providing its override function.

[0055] The reverse lock out latch 16 is as noted above the element whichprovides the “no mow in reverse” feature. It is provided with a “notch”feature at 16N to facilitate engagement with the free end of the stoplatch engaging portion 22 of the override lever 20. The reverse lock outlatch 16 also includes three holes: one hole to allow it to be pivotablybut freely mounted, another hole allowing spring 17 to attach thereto,and another hole allowing spring 18 to attach thereto.

[0056] Operation of Override Lever

[0057] As noted above, the shoulder bolt connection provides arelatively free pivoting feature, such that gravity will tend to causethe override lever 20 to pivot such that the stop latch engaging portion22 is in its “down” position, out of the way of the reverse lock outlatch 16, with the tab portion 21 sticking up.

[0058] When it is desired to “override” the no mow reverse feature, thetab portion 21 of the override lever 20 is pushed down, thus causing theoverride lever 20 to pivot against the influence of gravity such thatthe stop latch engaging portion 22 is in the path of the notch portion16N of the reverse lock out latch 16. At this point, if the blade isengaged, the reverse lock out latch 16 will not pivot due to the itbeing “locked out” by the override lever 20.

[0059] In one configuration, the cable (having a spring 18 in seriestherewith) can be attached to an ABS (Automatic Blade Stop) pedal, asknown in the art, which is used to maintain blade engagement unlessreleased.

[0060] Overall Operation

[0061] In on of the applicant's configurations, the ABS pedal isconfigured to keep the blade engaged once the blade has been manuallyengaged by another lever. However, a cable extending from the ABS pedalis used to operate reverse lock out latch 16.

[0062] Under the use of this configuration an operator pushes the ABSpedal down, engages the blade with a hand lever, and as long as the ABSpedal is held down, the blade remains engaged. However, if reverse isdesired (without override), the ABS pedal is released (stopping theblade) and reverse is selected. If cutting is again desired while inreverse, the operator again pushes the ABS pedal down and engages theblade with a hand lever.

[0063] In order to use the override feature, one must use ahand-foot-hand movement, by using the hand to engage the override lever20, the foot to engage the ABS, and the hand to engage the blade.

[0064] It should be understood that when the override lever 20 hasengaged the reverse lock out latch 16, such an engagement essentiallylocks or binds the two together. Therefore once the override lever hasbeen pushed down and the ABS pedal has been pressed, the override leveris “bound” in position until the ABS pedal is released. This allows theuser to release the override lever 20 and to engage the blade with thesame hand if so desired.

[0065] The reverse lock out latch 16 extends through the slot 14S wheninstalled and in use.

[0066] Second Embodiment—Mechanical Lawn/Garden Tractor

[0067] (FIG. 4)

[0068] Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which is an exploded view of aportion of a second embodiment 200 of the present invention. Althoughsuch a configuration could be used in a variety of environments, thisembodiment is intended by the applicant to be used with a lawn or gardentractor, in which no ABS pedal is used; the blade is engaged simply bymovement of a single hand operated control.

[0069] Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which shows a lock out assembly100 which includes:

[0070] a shoulder bolt 125,

[0071] three shim washers 127,

[0072] an override lever 120,

[0073] a latch bracket 114,

[0074] a lock out latch 116 pivotably attached relative tQ said latchbracket, and

[0075] a nut 126

[0076] The latch bracket 114 is attached relative to the frame of theoverall cutting apparatus. The lock out latch 116 is pivotably attachedrelative to the latch bracket 114 about pivot point 116P. Unless blockedby the override lever 120, the lock out latch 116 pivots 114 about pivotpoint 116P in response to blade engagement due to the use ofconventional cables similar to that discussed above. Such pivotingcauses the lock out latch 116 to move into a position which blocks or“locks out” a speed control lever similar to that discussed above, suchthat the tractor or similar device cannot be moved into reverse unlessthe blade is disengaged. In one configuration the lock out latch 116 isin place just ahead of blade engagement.

[0077] The shoulder bolt 125 is configured to pass through the washers127, through the hole in the override lever 120, through a hole in thelatch bracket 114, and to be captured by the nut 126. Such aconfiguration allows the override lever 120 to pivot freely relative tothe latch bracket 114.

[0078] The override lever 120 includes two holes—a large hole configuredto accept the shaft of the shoulder bolt and a smaller hole configuredto accept a one end of a return spring if so desired. The override lever120 is normally in a “nonlatching” position due to the influence ofgravity, although spring assist may be provided as desired.

[0079] The override lever 120 is configured to contain the lock outlatch 116 from pivoting into the path of a shift lever such that thelatching generally described above can be overridden by engagement ofthe override latch. As may be understood, this process is generallyprovided by movement of the override latch into a position such that theopen slot notch 120 N in the override lever 120 is configured to acceptand retain the thickness of the lock out latch 116, thus preventing itfrom pivoting to its lock out position. An in-line spring (not shown)similar to the spring 18 noted above is configured to stretch to asufficient amount to allow the blade to be engaged while the overridefeature is used.

[0080] As noted above, when the override lever 120 is in its “up” or“engaging” position, the lock out latch 116 is captured therein and isprevented from pivoting into its lock out position. It may also beunderstood that as long as the lock out latch 116 is biased intoengagement with the hook of the override latch, the override lever 120will not fall out of engagement therein, until the lock out latch 116 iswithdrawn. This feature allows the override lever 120 to remain engageduntil the lock out latch 116 is no longer in engagement with theoverride lever 120. This engagement can be provided by use of an in-linespring in the cable which activates the lock out latch 116.

[0081] It should be understood that since no foot action is required toactivate the blade of a tractor using such a configuration, to activatethe override feature operation of the apparatus by an operator would be“hand” then “other hand”; one hand would first operate override lever120, the other hand would engage the cutting blade, and then cuttingcould be done in forward and reverse without any blocking until theblade was disengaged.

[0082] Third Embodiment—Mechanical Tractor With Electric Solenoid BBC

[0083]FIG. 5, 6A, 6B

[0084] In this configuration, an electrical solenoid can be used toactivate the lock out latch instead of a “mechanical” process such as aconnecting cable. This would allow the solenoid to be operated by anelectrical PTO switch if so desired.

[0085] In reference to FIG. 5, it should be understood that the latchlock out assembly 100 is composed of multiple elements, particularly ageneral base element and a pivoting latch element.

[0086] However, in the embodiment shown, these elements are combined toform the single lock out latch assembly 100.

[0087] In this case, an electrical solenoid 150 is used with theassembly 100. As may be understood as the solenoid is activated anddeactivated, pivoting of the lock out latch of the latch lock outassembly 100 is provided.

[0088] Both mechanical and solenoid uses of the assembly 100 systemshave a return spring for the latch. The return spring is in the solenoidin the solenoid version, but is external in the mechanical version. Allspringing is done towards the off position (no blocking). The spring 153in the solenoid configuration of FIG. 5 is shown in its fully compressedstate.

[0089] The U-link 157 connects the plunger 155 of the solenoid, and thelock out latch.

[0090] When current is applied to the solenoid 150, it strokes out andpulls the plunger, which pulls the link, which pulls the bottom side ofthe lock out latch to the left, thus pulling it into the path of theshift lever (not shown).

[0091] When on the return stroke, when there is no energization of thesolenoid, the compression spring pushes on the rod, which pushes on thelink, which pushes on the latch.

[0092] Reference is now made to FIGS. 6A and 6B, which generallyillustrate the schematic layout of the embodiment 200, in whichelectrical means are used to engage and/or disengage a lock out latch 16(shown only generally for illustrative purposes). For example, if anelectrical blade clutch 230 is used to drive a drive shaft 240 driving acutting blade 250, its electrical circuit could also be used to operatea solenoid 220 which would engage the lock out latch 216.

[0093] As may be understood, the sequence of operation of theconfiguration shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B is similar to that shown in FIGS.1A-1C and 2A-2D. As an example, the electric switch 210 must be turnedoff in order to place mower in reverse, but cutting of the cutting blade250 can be turned back on when reverse has been selected. The one-wayblocking feature is also included in the FIGS. 4A-4B configuration, somovement from reverse to forward can be accomplished withoutinterrupting cutting. The one-way switch is not specifically shown inFIGS. 4A-4B for purposes of simplicity, but the latch design shown inFIGS. 1A-1C incorporated therein.

[0094] A “time delay” feature could also be used in conjunction with themechanical or electrical engagement features noted above. In theinstance of the electrical engagement configuration describedimmediately above, a delay timer unit 217 such as shown in dotted linein FIGS. 4A and 4B. The delay timer 217 could be used which would delaythe disengagement of the lock out switch for a time period which couldcorrespond to the time it takes for the blade to come to a stop (a.k.a.“blade stop time”). As an example only, such time could be 1-5 seconds.

[0095] As noted above, in this configuration, an electrical solenoid 220could be used to activate the lock out latch instead of a “mechanical”process such as a connecting cable, with the solenoid operated by anelectrical PTO switch if so desired. However, it should be understoodthat the present invention also contemplates the use of a lever whichcan be attached to a cable to provide the lock out motion, with thelever tripping an electrical switch to operate the PTO switch. Thiswould save the cost of a solenoid.

[0096] Fourth Embodiment—Hydrostatic Rear Engine Rider

[0097]FIG. 7,8,9, 10, 11

[0098] Reference is now made to FIGS. 7-11, which are directed towards aconfiguration which could be understood as a “hydro rider” version,which includes the use a hydrostatic drive unit which operates inconjunction with a transmission shaft portion which pivots or rotatesabout a pivot point 313P. It should be understood that the configurationof FIGS. 7-11 is in a blade-engaged, “override”, position.

[0099] On the embodiments discussed above in conjunction with FIGS. 1-6,a shift lever was being blocked. In the version now being discussed, alever leading to the transmission is being blocked from going intoreverse; this lever is not a shift lever but is closer in the linkagechain towards the transmission.

[0100] This embodiment includes:

[0101] fixed spring bracket 309,

[0102] a frame 311,

[0103] a transmission shaft portion 312

[0104] a transmission shaft pivot point 313P

[0105] a reverse lock out cable 315

[0106] a lock out latch 316

[0107] a blocking pin 316P

[0108] an in-line spring 317

[0109] a return spring 318

[0110] an override cable 319

[0111] an override lever 320

[0112] an override lever return spring 321

[0113] an override heel pedal 370

[0114] a blade engagement lever 360, and

[0115] a return spring 321.

[0116] Reverse lock out latch 316 is pivotably mounted relative to theframe 311 of the apparatus about a substantially vertical axis duringlevel cutting operation. Unless the override feature is in use, reverselock out latch 316 can pivot into and out of the path of thetransmission shaft portion 312 as the blade engagement lever is engagedand disengaged, respectively. It may be understood that such movementprevents and allows, respectively, the unit to be placed into reverse.Thus the feature of at least initially preventing mowing in reverse isagain provided. As the reverse lock out latch 316 is moved into its“blocking” position, it may be understood that a “pin” portion blocksthe movement of the transmission speed control shaft into its reverseposition. When the pin is about horizontal with the pivot point of thereverse lock out latch 316, it provides its stopping function as itscircumference is contacted.

[0117] Lock out latch return spring 318 has one end attached to thestationary spring bracket 309, and its forward end attached to thereverse lock out latch 316, such it tends to move the reverse lock outlatch 316 towards its “nonengaged” or “nonblocking” position. Thisspring force is countered by force which is applied to the reverse lockout cable 315, which has an in-line spring 317. The reverse lock outcable 315 is operably attached relative to a blade engagement means suchas a blade engagement lever 360, such that as the blade engagement leveris engaged, the cable 315 (with an in-line spring 317) tends to pullforwardly on the upper end of the reverse lock out latch 316, rotatingit into its “blocking” position.

[0118] Referring now particularly to FIG. 9, the override lever 320 ispivotably mounted relative to the frame about a vertical axis, and has aoverride lever return spring 321 attached to it such that it tends topull the override lever into a nonengaging position. The override leverreturn spring 321 has its other end attached to a stationary bracket309. The override lever 320 has a notch to accept the thickness of apart of the lock out latch to engage it in a similar manner as in theother embodiments described above.

[0119] An override pedal 370 is pivotably attached relative to the frame311 of the apparatus in a location which can be accessed by the foot ofthe operator. The override heel pedal 370 is used to activate theoverride lever 320 by use of an intermediate override cable 319, whichcan include an in-line spring as desired. The operator places theoperator's heel on the override heel pedal 370 before engaging theblade, thus activating the override feature in a manner similar to thatdiscussed above. This would provide overriding of the no mow in reversefeature.

[0120] As noted above, the override heel pedal 370 is configured toprovide selectively override or “block” the pivoting movement of thereverse lock out latch 316 (which precludes cutting in reverse),notwithstanding the fact that the cutting blade may be engaged. In thisconfiguration, it should be understood that the in-line spring 317 isextended to its greatest extent in normal operation, although this isaccounted for in engineering, and such stretching can be readilyrepeated without undue failure or fatigue.

[0121] It should be understood that the transmission is moved intoreverse, and if cutting is desired in reverse, this is possible. Whenthe transmission speed control shaft is in its reverse position, if theblade engagement lever is engaged, the blade engagement lever will pullon the reverse lock out cable, which will attempt to rotate the reverselock out latch 316. However, the reverse lock out latch 316 will not beable to be rotated, due to its being blocked by the transmission speedcontrol shaft. However, the in-line spring 317 in the cable 315 canagain be extended to accommodate this.

[0122] Fifth Embodiment—Vacuum Actuation

[0123] (FIG. 12)

[0124] Reference is now made to FIG. 12, which is logical schematic viewof another embodiment 400, which includes the use of vacuum.

[0125] Under this configuration, an engine 410 provides vacuum tooperate a vacuum actuator 420 which operates a sheathed cable 421, whichpulls an idler arm assembly 425 which engages the blades by means of abelt drive.

[0126] The vacuum actuator 420 is turned on and off by a switch 440which is controlled by the operator.

[0127] The vacuum actuator 420 is turned “off” when the transmissionposition switch 450 senses that the transmission is moved to reverse.This turns off the blades (not shown).

[0128] The vacuum actuator 420 is turned “on” when the transmission ismoved back to forward.

[0129] An operating scenario is as follows. With the engine on, and thetransmission is in neutral or forward, if the operator switches theblade control switch on, that engages the blade.

[0130] The mow in reverse switch 460, is intended as an override to thetransmission position switch. If the operator puts the mower in reverseand pushes the switch 430, the blade starts back up. This will requirethe blade control switch 430 to be on, and the mow in reverse switch 460to be pressed.

[0131] Under one version, the lawn mower can simply start back in itscutting mode upon reengagement of forward from reverse or neutral.However, a “reset” option is also contemplated in which the reset switchrequires the blade control switch 430 to be retriggered when thetransmission position switch 450 senses that the transmission is movedto reverse.

[0132] Under this configuration, the operator would have to turn theblade switch off, and the turn it back on. It would not automaticallycome back on when the transmission was moved from reverse into neutralor forward.

[0133] Sixth Embodiment—Proximity Sensor w/Vacuum

[0134] (FIG. 13)

[0135] This configuration includes the use of a proximity sensor 590,which activates an electrical switch. The switch can kill the engine(option “1”), deactivate the vacuum actuator 520 to stop the mower blade(option “2”), or deactivate the transmission (option “3”).

[0136] Proximity sensor types can include ultrasonic sensors or infraredsensors (to pick up body heat).

[0137] An external object proximity sensor 590 such as a protectiveback-up bar could provided across the rear of the machine or along otherperipheral areas. This bar would activate a switch when contact is madewith an object.

[0138] With the bar concept, the machine must be moved away from theobject that the protective bar contacted before the bar can be reset andthe engine and blades restarted.

[0139] The proximity sensor 590 may only work when in the reverse mode,as it could be falsely triggered when in forward mode, such as making aturn which suddenly brings something in the rear range of the unit.

[0140] Seventh Embodiment—Proximity Sensor—No Vacuum

[0141]FIG. 14

[0142] This version is similar to FIG. 13 above except that no vacuum isused and an electrical clutch assembly is used. This embodiment includesan engine 610, an operator's blade control switch 670, an objectproximity sensor 690, a transmission drive 650, an electricallyengerized clutch assembly 670, a blade drive shaft 671, and a cuttingblade 672.

[0143] Conclusion

[0144] Therefore it may be seen that a lock out feature is provide forpreventing a lawn mower from going into reverse unless the lawn mowerblade is first disengaged, while allowing the lawn mower cutting bladeto be reengaged upon being placed in reverse, said latch neverthelessallowing the lawn mower to be moved out of reverse without disengagingsaid lawn mower blade. An override feature is also provided, whichallows use of a separate override control to allow the user to overridethe reverse lock out latch in order to go from forward or neutral intoreverse without disengaging the cutting blade.

[0145] While this invention has been described in specific detail withreference to the disclosed embodiments, it will be understood that manyvariations and modifications may be effected within the spirit and scopeof the invention as described in the appended claims.

1. A lawn mower apparatus capable of cutting grass or other vegetation,said apparatus comprising: a cutting blade capable of cutting said grassor other vegetation; a cutting blade control selectively movable betweena cutting position and an idle, non-cutting, position, for causing saidcutting blade to be either in a cutting mode or an idle mode,respectively; a shift lever selectively moveable between a forward and areverse position, for causing forward and rearward movement of said lawnmower, respectively; a reverse lock out latch movable between a blockingposition and a cleared position, said reverse lock out latch when insaid cleared position configured to allow movement of said shift leverbetween said forward and reverse positions, said reverse lock out latchwhen in said blocking position configured to block movement of saidshift lever from said forward position towards said reverse position,said reverse lock out latch also configured to be moved into saidblocked position when said shift is in said reverse position; andcontrol linkage intermediate said cutting blade control and said reverselock out latch, said control linkage configured to cause said reverselock out latch to be moved to said blocking position when said blade isin said cutting mode, such that if a user attempts to shift said lawnmower from forward to reverse movement by use of said shift lever whilesaid blade is in said cutting mode, said cutting blade control mustfirst be moved into said idle position to allow said reverse lockinglatch to move to said cleared position, whereupon said shift lever maythen be moved to said reverse position and then said cutting bladecontrol may be moved back into said cutting mode to cut in reverse. 2.The lawn mower apparatus claimed above in claim 1, wherein said shiftlever goes through neutral when going from forward to reverse, andwherein said reverse lock out latch, when in said blocking position,precludes movement of said shift lever from neutral to reverse.
 3. Thelawn mower apparatus claimed above in claim 1, wherein said reverse lockout latch includes a pivotable latch configured to be placed in and outof the path of the direction control lever depending on whether saidcutting blade is engaged or disengaged, respectively.
 4. The lawn mowerapparatus claimed above in claim 1, wherein said reverse lock out latchincludes a latch configured to be placed in and out of the path of thedirection control lever depending on whether said cutting blade isengaged or disengaged, said latch being operated by a flexible cable. 5.The lawn mower apparatus claimed above in claim 1, wherein said reverselock out latch includes a latch configured to be placed in and out ofthe path of the direction control lever depending on whether saidcutting blade is engaged or disengaged, said latch being operated by anelectrical solenoid.
 6. A lawn mower capable of cutting grass or othervegetation, comprising: a cutting blade capable of cutting said grass orother vegetation; a cutting blade control selectively movable between acutting position and an idle, non-cutting, position, for causing saidcutting blade to be either in a cutting mode or an idle mode,respectively; a shift lever selectively moveable between a forward and areverse position, for causing forward and rearward movement of said lawnmower, respectively; a reverse lock out latch movable between a blockingposition and a cleared position, said reverse lock out latch when insaid cleared position configured to allow movement of said shift leverbetween said forward and reverse positions, said reverse lock out latchwhen in said blocking position configured to block movement of saidshift lever from said forward position towards said reverse position butnot to block movement of said shift lever from said reverse positiontowards said forward position, said reverse lock out latch alsoconfigured to be moved into said blocked position when said shift is insaid reverse position; and control linkage intermediate said cuttingblade control and said reverse lock out latch, said control linkageconfigured to cause said reverse lock out latch to be moved to saidblocking position when said blade is in said cutting mode, such that ifa user attempts to shift said lawn mower from forward to reversemovement by use of said shift lever while said blade is in said cuttingmode, said cutting blade control must first be moved into said idleposition to allow said reverse locking latch to move to said clearedposition, whereupon said shift lever may then be moved to said reverseposition and then said cutting blade control may be moved back into saidcutting mode to cut in reverse.
 7. The apparatus claimed above in claim6, wherein said shift lever goes through neutral when going from forwardto reverse, and wherein said reverse lock out latch, when in saidblocking position, precludes movement of said shift lever from neutralto reverse.
 8. The apparatus claimed above in claim 6, wherein saidreverse lock out latch includes a pivotable latch configured to beplaced in and out of the path of the direction control lever dependingon whether said cutting blade is engaged or disengaged, respectively. 9.The apparatus claimed above in claim 6, wherein said reverse lock outlatch includes a latch configured to be placed in and out of the path ofthe direction control lever depending on whether said cutting blade isengaged or disengaged, said latch being operated by a flexible cable.10. The apparatus claimed above in claim 6, wherein said reverse lockout latch includes a latch configured to be placed in and out of thepath of the direction control lever depending on whether said cuttingblade is engaged or disengaged, said latch being operated by anelectrical solenoid.
 11. The apparatus claimed above in claim 6, whereinsaid reverse lock out latch is shaped and spring loaded to allow saiddirection control lever to pass thereby from reverse to forward but notfrom forward to reverse, when said reverse lock out latch is in saidblocking position.
 12. A lawn mower apparatus capable of cutting grassor other vegetation, said apparatus comprising: a cutting blade capableof cutting said grass or other vegetation; a cutting blade controlselectively movable between a cutting position and an idle, non-cutting,position, for causing said cutting blade to be either in a cutting modeor an idle mode, respectively; a shift lever selectively moveablebetween a forward and a reverse position, for causing forward andrearward movement of said lawn mower, respectively; a reverse lock outlatch movable between a blocking position and a cleared position, saidreverse lock out latch when in said cleared position configured to allowmovement of said shift lever between said forward and reverse positions,said reverse lock out latch when in said blocking position configured toblock movement of said shift lever from said forward position towardssaid reverse position but not to block movement of said shift lever fromsaid reverse position towards said forward position, said reverse lockout latch also configured to be moved into said blocked position whensaid shift is in said reverse position; control linkage intermediatesaid cutting blade control and said reverse lock out latch, said controllinkage configured to cause said reverse lock out latch to be moved tosaid blocking position when said blade is in said cutting mode; and anoverride lever configured to selectively retain said reverse lock outlatch from being moved to said blocking position when said blade is insaid cutting mode, said override lever overriding the operation of saidreverse out latch, such that if a user attempts to shift said lawn mowerfrom forward to reverse movement by use of said shift lever while saidblade is in said cutting mode, said cutting blade control must first bemoved into said idle position to allow said reverse locking latch tomove to said cleared position, unless said override lever is activated,whereupon said shift lever may then be moved to said reverse positionwhile said cutting blade control is in said cutting mode.
 13. In a lawncutting apparatus having forward and reverse apparatus direction controland capability, said lawn cutting apparatus also including a cuttingblade control controlling alternate engagement and disengagement of acutting blade, the improvement comprising: a lock out device forpreventing said lawn cutting apparatus direction control from beingplaced into reverse unless said lawn cutting blade is first disengagedby said cutting blade control, said lock out device allowing said lawncutting blade to be re-engaged by said cutting blade control after saidlawn cutting apparatus direction control is placed in reverse.
 14. In alawn cutting apparatus having forward and reverse apparatus directioncapability and control, and a cutting blade control for controllingengagement and disengagement of a cutting blade, the improvementcomprising: a lock out device for preventing said lawn cutting apparatusdirection control from being placed into reverse unless said lawncutting blade is first disengaged by said cutting blade control, saidlock out device allowing said lawn cutting blade to be re-engaged bysaid cutting blade control after said lawn cutting apparatus directioncontrol is placed in reverse, said lock out device also allowing saidlawn mower direction control to be moved out of reverse withoutdisengaging said lawn mower blade.
 15. The apparatus claimed above inclaim 14, wherein said lock out device includes a latch configured to beplaced in and out of the path of the direction control lever dependingon whether said cutting blade is engaged or disengaged, respectively.16. In a lawn cutting apparatus having forward and reverse apparatusdirection control and capability, said lawn cutting apparatus alsoincluding a cutting blade control controlling alternate engagement anddisengagement of a cutting blade, the improvement comprising: a lock outdevice for preventing said lawn cutting apparatus direction control frombeing placed into reverse unless said lawn cutting blade is firstdisengaged by said cutting blade control, said lock out device allowingsaid lawn cutting blade to be re-engaged by said cutting blade controlafter said lawn cutting apparatus direction control is placed inreverse; and a selectively operable override device for selectivelyoverriding the operation of said lock out device to selectively allowingthe selection of reverse while cutting.
 17. The improvement of claim 16,wherein said override device is configured to lock said lock out devicein place until the cutting blade is disengaged.